Elementary Linear Algebra: Applications Version 11th Edition

Book Preface

This textbook is an expanded version of Elementary Linear Algebra, eleventh edition, by Howard Anton. The first nine chapters of this book are identical to the first nine chapters of that text; the tenth chapter consists of twenty applications of linear algebra drawn frombusiness, economics, engineering, physics, computer science, approximation theory, ecology, demography, and genetics. The applications are largely independent of each other, and each includes a list of mathematical prerequisites. Thus, each instructor has the flexibility to choose those applications that are suitable for his or her students and to incorporate each application anywhere in the course after the mathematical prerequisites have been satisfied. Chapters 1–9 include simpler treatments of some of the applications covered in more depth in Chapter 10.

This edition gives an introductory treatment of linear algebra that is suitable for a first undergraduate course. Its aim is to present the fundamentals of linear algebra in the clearest possible way—sound pedagogy is the main consideration. Although calculus is not a prerequisite, there is some optional material that is clearly marked for students with a calculus background. If desired, that material can be omitted without loss of continuity.